Exercise support instrument

ABSTRACT

An exercise assisting meter that enables the user to enjoy physical exercises and to perform a proper long-term management of exercises by enumerating the amount of repetitive exercises of the user and displaying the result of assessment on the exercises with an image information (character) of virtual organism representing different assessment grades. This meter manages the days of practice from the start of an exercise and makes the character evolve or grow as the days go on. Further, it increases or decreases a life-gauge for managing the healthy state of a character according to daily target achievement existence, and changes the figure (shape of body) of the character to a healthy, obese or sick form according to the life-gauge. Further, it includes a wellness meter for managing the wellness of the character according to the rate of target achievement on the previous day, and changes the expression and action of the character according to the wellness meter.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to an exercise assisting meter and, moreparticularly, to an exercise assisting meter for enumerating the amountof repetitive physical exercise performed by the user and outputting theenumeration information.

A pedometer is a typical example of an exercise assisting meter of thiskind.

BACKGROUND ART

The conventional pedometer is a simple device that places emphasis onfunctionality and that indicates one's daily number of steps (number ofoscillations) by a numerical value or graph or by a value calculated interms of distance or calories.

If the device does nothing more than inform one of one's daily number ofsteps, however, it acts merely as a simple measuring instrument withwhich the user quickly loses interest, especially when exercise isperformed over an extended period of time. In addition, merely beinginformed of one's daily number of steps does not concretely furnish onewith a feeling of satisfaction (results) from continuous use over, say,a period of one week. In particular, if a day of rest intervenes duringthe exercise routine, the feeling of satisfaction after one week is nil.

The cumulative number of steps over several days can be calculated evenwith a conventional pedometer if the pedometer is not reset daily.However, if the user is informed of a cumulative number of stepsextending over several days, the user will no longer be able to tellwhether a daily norm (target value) that he or she has decided on hasbeen attained. The only way to ascertain this is to record it separatelyin a diary, and thus the user is compelled to perform a troublesomemanagement task in addition to the exercise routine.

Further, the conventional pedometer is such that it is employed by auser who decides upon a norm, as mentioned above. However, the number ofsteps taken during one day differs from person to person, depending uponindividual physical stamina or lifestyle, etc. Moreover, a beginnerusually does not know how much he or she can walk in one day. If thebeginner decides upon the target value of his or her own volition,therefore, the individual tends t decide upon an excessively high valueand will not continue with the exercise routine for long. If thebeginner attempts to decide upon an appropriate target value, on theother hand, he or she will be constrained to record the daily number ofsteps before use and to undertake the burden of carefully analyzing therecorded data.

Thus, the conventional pedometer is a simple device that merelyindicates a daily number of steps as by a numerical value. Consequently,the device not only does not enable exercise to be performed enjoyablybut also fails to appropriately support exercise (health) managementover long period of time.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been devised in view of the problems of theprior art mentioned above and an object thereof is to provide anexercise assisting meter that makes it possible to exercise enjoyablyand to appropriately support exercise (health) management over a longperiod of time.

The foregoing object is attained by the arrangement shown in FIG. 1.Specifically, an exercise assisting meter according to claim (1) of thepresent invention comprises an exercise-amount enumeration unit forenumerating amount of repetitive exercise of a user, a memory storingimage information on virtual organisms of a plurality of grades, acontroller for managing a relative period, which extends from areference time, and evaluating continuously the amount of exerciseenumerated by the exercise-amount enumeration unit every relative periodand selecting a virtual organism of a corresponding grade, and a displayunit for reading image information on the selected virtual organism outof the memory and displaying this image information on a screen.

The controller manages a relative period, which extends from a referencetime, evaluates continuously the amount of exercise enumerated by theexercise-amount enumeration unit every relative period and selects avirtual organism of a corresponding grade. By virtue of thisarrangement, it is possible to exercise enjoyably and to appropriately(continuously) support exercise (health) management over a long periodof time. Further, the controller evaluates, every relative period, theamount of exercise enumerated by the exercise-amount enumeration unitevery relative period. By virtue of this arrangement, the user basicallyis not informed of progress on the way from the previous evaluation tothe current evaluation, as a result of which the user looks forward tothe current evaluation with greater anticipation. Further, thecontroller continuously evaluates the amount of exercise enumerated bythe exercise-amount enumeration unit every relative period. By virtue ofthis arrangement, it is possible to reflect the results of one, two ormore past evaluations, which are made every relative period, in theresults of the current evaluation. This makes it possible to provideunexpected results of evaluation in response to continuous effort by theuser.

The amount of repetitive exercise of the user mentioned above means thenumber of times repetitive exercise, such as walking, weightlifting,expander exercises and abdominal-muscle exercises, is performed by theuser. The exercise-amount enumeration unit, therefore, consistsessentially of a counter, for example, and does not signify inclusion ofan exercise measuring device (an oscillation sensor, etc.) that convertsexercising (such as walking) per se to a repetitive signal. Theaforesaid virtual organisms mean actual and imaginary organisms(animals, fish, insects, plants, dinosaurs, aliens, etc.). The gradessignify ranks inclusive of a superior/inferior concept, or simple gradedivisions. In the case of the former (the superior/inferior concept),image information representing virtual organisms expressing the conceptof superiority (high level, healthy, happy, etc.) and the concept ofinferiority (low level, obese, dejected) is provided to correspond tolarge and small amounts of exercise, respectively. In the case of thelatter (simple grade divisions), any image information representingvirtual organisms subjected to simple grade division irrespective ofranking is provided to correspond to large and small amounts ofexercise. The latter case offers the enjoyment and surprise of not beingable to guess which virtual organism will appear.

Preferably, in claim (2) of the present invention, the memory in claim(1) of the present invention stores image information of a plurality ofgrades relating to species, forms, expressions and/or motion of virtualorganisms.

For example, two-legged, four-legged and legless types of organisms arestored. Furthermore, forms of human health, obesity and illness, forexample, are stored. Also stored, for example, are human smiling facesand ordinary or dejected (melancholic) expressions. Furthermore, humanwellness and motion (action) representing ordinariness or depression,for example, are stored. In accordance with (2) of the presentinvention, therefore, the results of evaluating amount of exercise canbe expressed very richly to include not only species but also the form,expression and action of the species.

Preferably, the controller of the present invention causes the speciesof a virtual organism to evolve or causes the form of the virtualorganism to grow with a continuous evaluation.

The reference time refers to a reference day at which an exercisestarts, for example, and the relative period which starts from thereference time refers to a first period (first day) and a second period(second day) counting from the reference time (reference day). Inaccordance with claim (3) of the present invention, exercise over a longperiod of time can be enjoyed in conjunction with evolution or growth ofa virtual organism, not simply by counting the number of days.

Preferably, in claim (4) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (1) of the present invention retains a target value of an amountof exercise to be attained within one relative period and, by judgingwhether or not a goal has been attained, evaluates the amount ofexercise enumerated by the exercise-amount enumeration unit in regard toeach relative period.

One relative period refers to, e.g., one day. The target value is setmanually or automatically. In accordance with claim (4) of the presentinvention, rather than mentioning in detail a daily goal attainmentrate, the arrangement is such that the results of exercise are judgedbased upon whether or not the target value has been attained, especiallyin regard to exercise over the long term. This is not only easy for theuser to remember but also encourages the user to exercise while adoptingsimple goal attainment as a daily goal. Whether or not the goal has beenattained is determined not by subjective judgment in one's own mind, asin the prior art, but objectively and rigidly by judgment rendered by amachine (third-party evaluation). Accordingly, when a goal is attained,the user is provided with a greater feeling of satisfaction. When a goalfails to be attained, enlightenment is provided for the next time andthe user is prompted to continue training.

Preferably, in claim (5) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (4) of the present invention enumerates a cumulative value ofamount of exercise performed over a predetermined period of time andobtains target value based upon a calculation (cumulative value)×[(onerelative period)/(predetermined time period)].

In claim (5) of the present invention, the present assisting meter setsa target value automatically taking into consideration the fact that itis difficult for a beginner to decide his or her own target value(norm). This can be carried out with ease if the user decides anappropriate time every day and exercises (walks, etc.) at such time; theuser need not decide a daily target value.

If the aforesaid one relative period is made, e.g., one day, and thepredetermined period of time is made, e.g., three days, these arealready known by the user. The result of the user walking a total ofthree hours (12,000 steps) the first day, two hours (8,000 steps) thesecond day and three hours (12,000 steps) the third day, for example,will be a cumulative value that is equal to 32,000 steps. We then havetarget value=32,000×(⅓)=10,666 steps. Rounding down fractions gives10,000 steps.

Thus, if the user merely exercises to the extent possible, a targetvalue that is not excessive for the user is set appropriately. It ispossible to set a higher norm if the user tries harder or to set a lowernorm if the user cuts back. In either case, the user is capable ofdirectly experiencing how difficult or how easy the current exercise isand can adjust the exercise correctly based thereon. It should be notedthat the predetermined period of time (three days) may be shorter thanthe predetermined period (one day), e.g., a half-day. In this case, wehave target value=(half-day's accumulative value)×(1/0.5) and a targetvalue is obtained in a short time.

Preferably, in claim (6) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (4) of the present invention manages a life gauge that is forcontrolling selection of a species or form of a virtual organism andcauses the life gauge the next time to be incremented or decremented inaccordance with the judgment, made in each relative period, as towhether or not a goal has been attained.

In accordance with claim (6) of the present invention, the life gaugecurrently reflects past achievement and dynamically expresses exercisinghistory. Since selection of the species or form of a virtual organism iscontrolled in accordance with the life gauge, the virtual organism(character) on the display screen develops two legs (evolves into ahuman being) or changes to or grows to a healthy form (physique) if theuser strives daily. If the user is idle from day to day, the virtualorganism evolves into a legless animal or changes to or grows into aform (physique) of obesity or illness. If the user strives or growslazy, the species or form changes within the bounds of possibility.Accordingly, the progress of long-term exercise can be represented withrich expression and in dynamic fashion by evolution and growth of thecharacter and a change in the physique of the character. In this casegrowth of the character serves as a good measure indicating elapsedexercise time.

Preferably, in claim (7) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (1) of the present invention retains one, two or more goalattainment rates that extend back in time from the present, causes thetarget value the next time to increase in a case where one, two or moregoal attainment rates exceed a first predetermined threshold value thatis greater than 1, and causes the target value the next time to decreasein a case where one, two or more goal attainment rates fall below asecond predetermined threshold value that is less than 1.

In general, it is preferred that a norm not be changed once it has beenset. However, if a severe norm has been set, the character that appearson the screen will weaken in an instant even though the user ispersevering. Conversely, if a lax norm has been set, the character willbecome healthy in an instant even though the user is not persevering. Ineither case, a discrepanc can develop relative to the subjectivity ofthe user and this can cause the user to fail to persist. In claim (7) ofthe present invention, therefore, goal attainment rates extending overtwo consecutive days, for example, are evaluated and a target value canbe varied in dependence upon the degree of perseverance. As a result,not only is any discrepancy relative to the user's subjectivityeliminated but it is also possible for the user to properly enjoy aninitiated exercise to its conclusion without over-or under-exertion. Inaddition, the meter makes it possible to properly support exercise(health) management over the long term.

Preferably, in claim (8) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (3) of the present invention retains one, two or more goalattainment rates that extend back in time from the present and causesthe species of the virtual organism the next time to mutate to a speciesof a superior grade in a case where one, two or more goal attainmentrates exceed a third predetermined threshold value that is greater than1.

In accordance with claim (8) of the present invention, it is possiblefor the character on the screen to mutate if the user demonstratesdetermination during the course of exercising. As a result, anindividual who temporarily grew idle is given the opportunity forrecovery, in which the character evolves to a higher species. Further,using a logical and rich method of expression, the present meter makesit possible to dynamically follow up large changes in amount of exerciseduring the course of exercise performed by the user.

Preferably, in claim (9) of the present invention, the memory in claim(1) of the present invention stores image information indicating that avirtual organism is resting, and the controller manages actual time and,from a first predetermined time of the previous night to a secondpredetermined time of the following morning, causes the imageinformation indicative of resting to be displayed instead of imageinformation indicating that the virtual organism is awake.

In accordance with claim (9) of the present invention, a character onthe screen wakes up in the morning and sleeps at night in the samefashion as the user. The character therefore shares its life with theuser and the user develops a feeling of intimacy with the character justas if the user were exercising together with the character for a longperiod of time.

Preferably, in claim (10) of the present invention, the memory in claim(1) of the present invention stores image information indicating theconduct(behavior) of a virtual organism, and the controller managesactual time and, in a case where amount of exercise greater than apredetermined amount is detected within a predetermined period of timeat night, the controller causes the image information indicative ofconduct to be displayed by inserting the information or superimposing itat an appropriate timing.

In accordance with claim (10) of the present invention, the controllerproduces a suit image indicating conduct (signifying a warning) inresponse to detection of the fact that the user is pleasure-seeking atnight. As a result, the user is encouraged to proceed with long-termexercise in a healthy manner.

Preferably, in claim (11) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (6) of the present invention retains date of birth of the user,information representing a comfort index that conforms to the seasonand/or a mood index that conforms to the time, and manages actual time,actual date and a wellness meter for controlling selection of expressionor motion of a virtual organism being displayed on the screen. Thewellness meter is obtained at a suitable timing by a weighted evaluationof a combination of any one, two or more of an evaluation regarding goalattainment rate at the present time and/or on a day in the past, abiorhythm at the present date obtained from the date of birth, thecomfort index conforming to the actual date, the mood index conformingto the actual time, and a random number.

In accordance with claim (11) of the present invention, a character onthe screen not only evolves, grows and changes in physique in dependenceupon the life gauge but also undergoes a change in expression or motion(action) at a suitable timing in accordance with the wellness meterindicating the wellness of the character.

The wellness meter is decided placing emphasis mainly upon evaluation ofshort-term goal attainment rate and is not directly related to the lifegauge, which decides the physique of the character. Even if physique(the life gauge) is making a transition to health, therefore, thecharacter will be out of spirits from the morning of the present day ifthe character was neglectful the previous day. Conversely, even ifphysique (the life gauge) is undergoing a transition to obesity orillness, the character will be in good spirits tonight if the characterpersevered during the day.

Furthermore, if the wellness meter takes into account the biorhythm ofthe user, the comfort index conforming to season and the mood indexconforming to time (morning, evening), then the expression and attitudeof the character will approach the feeling of the user. The character inthis case seems to be sharing its life with user under the samecircumstances (origins) and in the same environment as that of the user.

Furthermore, if the wellness meter takes into account some randomnumbers, the mood (expression, deportment) of the character will exhibitsome capriciousness. The character in this case appears as the useritself or as someone else.

It should be noted that control of the selection of the expressionpresented by a virtual organism on the screen may involve changing onlythe expression of one part of the form (character) being displayed onthe screen or selecting the entirety of the form (character) of adifferent expression. Thus, in accordance with claim (11) of the presentinvention, the user is capable of continuing exercising enjoyably over along period of time together with a character of rich expression andconduct.

Preferably, in claim (12) of the present invention, claim (6) of thepresent invention is provided with an interaction key for interactionwith a virtual organism, and the memory stores a plurality of items ofimage information abstractly represent good and bad moods of a virtualorganism. The controller retains date of birth of the user, a comfortindex that conforms to the season and/or a mood index that conforms tothe time, and manages actual time, actual date and a wellness meter forcontrolling selection of an interaction response screen. The wellnessmeter is obtained at the time of an input from the interaction key by aweighted evaluation of a combination of any one, two or more of anevaluation regarding goal attainment rate at the present time and/or ona day in the past, a biorhythm at the present date obtained from thedate of birth, the comfort index conforming to the actual date, the moodindex conforming to the actual time, and a random number. Imageinformation abstractly representing said moods corresponding to thewellness meter is displayed on the interaction response screen.

In accordance with claim (12) of the present invention, a character onthe screen does not merely evolve, grow and change in physique independence upon the life gauge. When the interaction key for interactingwith a character is pressed, there is a display of image informationabstractly indicating good or bad moods, etc., of the character at suchtime in accordance with the wellness meter indicating the wellness ofthe character.

The abstract image is an image not related to the species or form of thecharacter and comprises, say, an abstract facial expression. Variouswellness states of the character (good spirits, happiness, anger, fear,motivation, sadness, laziness, fatigue, melancholy, illness, etc.) canbe expressed abstractly and in easily understandable fashion even on ascreen of limited size. Of course, the state of wellness of thecharacter may be expressed by an image of an abstract action (as by asimple animation method).

Preferably, in claim (13) of the present invention, claim (6) of thepresent invention is provided with an interaction key for interactionbetween the user and a virtual organism, and the memory stores a messageconversion table in which season, date and time, and/or evaluation ofgoal attainment rate at the present time and/or on a day in the pastserve as conditions and in which message information regardinggreetings, words of encouragement and/or praise, etc., are made tocorrespond to respective ones of these conditions. The controllermanages the actual time and actual date and, in response to an inputfrom the interaction key, extracts, and displays on the interactionresponse screen, message information from the message conversion table,the message information conforming to the present date, present timeand/or evaluation of goal attainment rate at the present time and/or ona day in the past.

In accordance with claim (13) of the present invention, a character onthe screen does not merely evolve, grow and change in physique independence upon the life gauge. When the interaction key for interactingwith a character is pressed, various message information is output tothe screen (and to a speaker if necessary) based upon evaluation of goalattainment rate at such time, actual time (morning, afternoon, evening,etc.), season and actual date (calendar information). The messageinformation relates to greetings, words of encouragement and praiseconforming to conditions. Accordingly, though only one-way, the user canenjoy dialog with a character. In addition, unexpected events such as agreeting to the effect that today is Valentine's Day can be communicatedto the user.

Preferably, in claim (14) of the present invention, claim (1) of thepresent invention is provided with a prescribed key and the controlleris adapted so as to be capable of activating or deactivating theenumerating operation of the exercise-amount enumeration unit inresponse to an input from the prescribed key.

For example, an inconvenience can arise in that if the user boards atrain or bus, etc., while the present meter is being used as apedometer, the gauge will detect rocking of the train or bus andenumerate this rocking as amount of exercise despite the fact that theuser is not walking. In claim (14) of the present invention, theenumerating operation of the exercise-amount enumeration unit can beactivated or deactivated by simple operation of a key.

Preferably, in claim (15) of the present invention, the exercise-amountenumeration unit in claim (1) of the present invention detects timeintervals at which a signal relating to the amount of repetitiveexercise of the user is generated, evaluates these time intervals by apredetermined threshold value and separately counts signals, whichbelong to different time intervals, as amounts of exercise of differentcategories.

For example, if the user walks and runs while the present meter is beingused as a pedometer, the amount of exercise cannot be evaluatedcorrectly unless these activities can be distinguished from each other.In claim (15) of the present invention, the time intervals of exerciseproduced in such continuous fashion are detected, the time intervals areevaluated in terms of magnitude relative to the predetermined thresholdvalue and signals belonging to different time intervals are countedseparately as amounts of exercise of different categories (e.g., walkingor running). It is possible, therefore, to correctly evaluate the amountof exercise of the user.

Preferably, in claim (16) of the present invention, the controller inclaim (6), (11) or (12) is provided with a prescribed game processingfunction and causes the life gauge or wellness meter to be incrementedif the user has won a game.

In order to increment the life gauge or wellness meter, basically theonly way is to attain the daily goal. However, adhering to this toostrictly results in long-term exercising becoming to severe and providesno leeway. Accordingly, if the user plays a game in the meantime andwins the game, the life gauge or wellness meter (and the goal attainmentrate if necessary) is incremented as a reward. When the user isconstrained to take a day off from exercising, therefore, the user playsthe game.

Preferably, in claim (17) of the present invention, claim (6) of thepresent invention is provided with a prescribed key and the controllerprovides a plurality of personal files for managing the relative period,target value and life gauge of the user and changes over a personal filethat is the object of management in accordance with an input obtained byoperating the prescribed key.

If a plurality of personal files are provided, the exercise routines ofa plurality of individuals (e.g., A and B) can be managed concurrentlyby a single inexpensive meter and A and B can enjoy competing. Forexample, today A uses the present instrument upon changing over thepersonal file to A, whereupon A's personal file is updated. In themeantime, the personal file of B remains quiescent and B practices inpreparation for tomorrow. On the next day, B uses the present instrumentupon changing over the personal file to B, whereupon B's personal fileis updated. In the meantime, the personal file of A remains quiescentand A practices in preparation for tomorrow.

Alternatively, A, who can exercise only three days a week, uses thepresent instrument upon changing over the personal file to A only onthose days on which exercising can be performed, with B's personal filebeing treated as a dummy file without being used. If this expedient isadopted, A's personal file is updated just as if A's exercising,performed discontinuously three days a week, where performed on threeconsecutive days.

Preferably, in claim (18) of the present invention, claim (1) of thepresent invention is provided with signal input means coupled to anexternal exercise measuring device by wire, light or radio, forinputting a signal indicative of detection of repetitive amount ofexercise of a user measured by the external exercise measuring unit.

In a case where the present meter is used as a pedometer, it ispreferred that a simple oscillation sensor be incorporated within themeter. However, exercising performed by the user is not only walking.For example, repetitive exercises (strengthening of pectoral muscles,etc.) of a variety of forms may be carried out using a variety machinesat an athletics center, for example. Many machines, if their motion isrepetitive, no matter how complicated, can convert this motion torepetitive pulse signals in a manner similar to that of an oscillationsensor and provide the signals externally in simple fashion.

Accordingly, in claim (18) of the present invention, a signal indicativeof detection of repetitive amount of exercise of a user measured by theexternal exercise measuring unit (machine) is input by the signal inputmeans and this signal is processed is a manner similar to that from apedometer, by way of example. Though one step in walking and onerepetition of an exercise for strengthening pectoral muscles cannot becompared in terms of amount of exercise, all of the exercising performedby the user in one day can at least be the object of evaluation. Ofcourse, it should be obvious that the present meter may be used from thestart exclusively for the purpose of managing exercise for thestrengthening of the pectorals. Further, if the machine outputs thepectoral strengthening exercise as a pulse signal calculated in terms ofa corresponding number of steps, the total amount of exercise can beevaluated correctly combining both walking and pectoral strengtheningexercises.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram for describing the principles of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is an external view of an exercise assisting meter (trainingpedometer) according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of the exercise assistingmeter according to this embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a diagram for describing an exercise managing data fileaccording to this embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing the forms of characters according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of main processing according to this embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of exercise enumeration processing according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart (1) of processing for changing date according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart (2) of processing for changing date according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart (3) of processing for changing date according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart (4) of processing for changing date according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart (1) of character interaction processing accordingto this embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart (2) of character interaction processing accordingto this embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of other control processing according to thisembodiment;

FIG. 15 is a diagram for describing a life conversion table according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a diagram for describing a wellness meter according to thisembodiment;

FIG. 17 is a diagram for describing an interaction-output extractiontable according to this embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a diagram (1) for describing a display screen according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a diagram (2) for describing a display screen according tothis embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a weight conversion table forcharacters according to this embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a timing chart (1) of walking for training according to thisembodiment;

FIG. 22 is a timing chart (2) of walking for training according to thisembodiment;

FIG. 23 is a diagram (1) for describing forms of using the exerciseassisting meter according to this embodiment; and

FIG. 24 is a diagram (2) for describing forms of using the exerciseassisting meter according to this embodiment.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be describedin detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should benoted that identical reference characters indicate identical orcorresponding components throughout the drawings.

FIG. 2 is an external view of an exercise assisting meter (trainingpedometer) according to an embodiment.

In FIG. 2(A), the dimensions of one example of a main body 10 are awidth W of 50 mm, a height H of 30 mm and a depth D of 10 mm. The fronthas a console (liquid crystal display 27, key switches), the side aconnector jack 36, described later, and the back a fastener (not shown)for being fastened to a belt or the like. The external shape of the mainbody 10 is not limited to the rectangular configuration shown. The mainbody can be constructed to have a variety of shapes, such as one havinga rounded configuration, to the extent that functionality andoperability are not sacrificed.

FIG. 2(B) illustrates an instrument 10 of a standard type. When used,the instrument can be carried about by hooking the back fastener on abelt 50 (or by winding it about the belt).

FIG. 2(C) illustrates an instrument 10 of another type. Here thestructure is such that a fastening adapter (cover) 10A is attached tothe front of the main body 10 by a hinge member 41 or the like so as tobe free to open and close. At the time of use, a fastener (not shown) onthe back of the adapter 10A is hooked on the belt 50 so that theinstrument can be carried about. Ordinarily, the main body 10 is used(operated) by latching it with the adapter 10A by a latch member 42(latch mechanism or magnet, etc.) The main body 10 is opened when theconsole is viewed or manipulated.

FIG. 2(D) illustrates an instrument 10 of another type. Here thestructure (of key-holder type) is such that the main body 10 is providedwith a handle member 43 substantially at the center of its top side sothat the instrument is used while being suspended from the belt 50 by aring-shaped strap (or chain) that is passed through the handle member43.

It should be noted that the main body 10 may be directly provided with ahole, which is indicated by arrow p or q, instead of the handle member43.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of the exercise assistingmeter according to this embodiment.

Shown in the Figure are a case (main body) 11 of the instrument, aprinted circuit board 12, a CPU 21 for overall control of the instrument10, a quartz oscillator 22, a real-time clock unit (RTCU) 23, a commonbus 24 of the CPU 21, a ROM 25, a RAM 26, a liquid crystal display (LCD)27, an LCD controller (LCDC) 28, a speaker (SPK) 29 using apiezoelectric vibrating plate, a baseband processor (BBC) 30 forconverting audio data to an audio signal (sound), an oscillation sensor31 for sensing oscillation (walking, etc.), a peripheral I/O (PIO) 32 ofthe CPU 21, a left key “←”, a right key “→”, an enter (select) key “OK”,a reset key “R”, a button battery (BAT) 33 of 3 V, for example, a powerswitch (PSW) 34, an external rod member (e.g., a match stick) 35 usedwhen the power supply of the instrument is turned off temporarily, aconnector jack 36, and a communication unit (CU) 37.

The CPU 21 has a function for accepting external interrupts I1, I2 fromthe RTCU 23 and oscillation sensor 31 and an internal interrupt basedupon internal operation (a timer function, etc.) of the CPU 21. The ROM25 stores a common data file 25 a (e.g., various character patternsshown in FIG. 5 and various data tables shown in FIGS. 15-17 and FIG.20) illustrated in FIG. 4(C), control programs shown in FIGS. 6-14 andvarious screen implementation information shown in FIGS. 18, 19. The RAM26 stores a common data file 26 a shown in FIG. 4(A), personal datafiles 26 b, 26 c shown in FIG. 4(B), and other variable datainformation.

The RTCU frequency-divides a master clock signal MCK of the CPU 21 tothereby generate a real-time clock interrupt RTC at a rate of once every10 ms, by way of example. The CPU 21 manages real-time (actual-time)information in the RAM 26 based upon this clock interrupt. It should benoted that a CPU having a built-in real-time clock function may be used.

The inserted diagram (a) illustrates the structure of the oscillationsensor 31.

Shown in the Figure are a hollow case 31 a, a spherical gravity contact31 b consisting of metal, a support member 31 c of the gravity contactand an insulating stationary member 31 d for fixedly holding the supportmember 31 c on the case 31 a. The case 31 a is metallic or has a metalcoating surface provided on at least the inner surface of a cavity, andthe metal surface is grounded to the grounding point of the printedcircuit board 12 to form a ground contact. The support member 31 ccomprises a rod-shaped, plate-shaped or coil-shaped spring member andhas an appropriate elastic coefficient and damper coefficient forflexibly supporting the prescribed gravity contact 31 b. As a result,the gravity contact 31 b will not contact the ground contact 31 a ifoscillation (acceleration) is less than half cycle, for example, andwill not follow up oscillation (acceleration) of greater than fivecycles, for example. A contact signal from the gravity contact 31 benters a Schmitt trigger circuit ST via a pull-up resistor R1 to therebyraise resistance to noise. An output signal S from this circuit is inputto the external interrupt interface channel I2 of the CPU 21 via theconnector jack 36.

The connector jack 36 has a spring contact 36 a and a stationary contact36 b and normally connects the output signal S of the oscillation sensor31 to the CPU 21. If a contact pin of a cable 10B is inserted from theoutside, however, the spring contact 36 a is pressed by the tip of thepin to break the contact between the oscillation sensor 31 and the CPU21 and input the signal from the cable 10B to the CPU 21. The springcontact 36 a is biased to +V by a pull-up resistor R2. A driver circuit(ST, etc.) of output-open collector type can be connected to the contact36 a. A case in which the cable 10B is used will be described withreference to FIGS. 23 and 24.

It should be noted that the oscillation sensor 31 may be constructedutilizing a piezoelectric element. An oscillation sensor available onthe market can be utilized. Further, the communication unit 37 is notalways necessary. A method of using this unit also will be describedwith reference to FIG. 23.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for describing an exercise managing data fileaccording to this embodiment. FIG. 4(A) illustrates a command data fileeach item of the content of which is stored in a register of RAM 26 a.To give an overview of this content, “Actual Date” represents the actualdate, “Actual Time” represents the actual time (hour, minute andsecond), “Interaction Timer” represents a timer which generates timingof interaction from a character to the user, “Timer” represents ageneral-purpose timer, and “Personal File Pointer” represents a pointerfor selecting personal data files 26 b, 26 c, described later.

The content of “Actual Date” and “Actual Time” initially is made toagree with the present year, month, day, hour, minute and second,entered by the user, in clock setting processing, described later.“Actual Time” thenceforth is managed in units of, e.g., 10 ms. When anRTC interrupt is generated at 10-ms intervals, the least significant bitof the actual-time information is incremented by +1 to update the hours,minutes and seconds. The “Actual Date” is updated in accordance withcalendar information if necessary.

Though the management processing is not illustrated, the “InteractionTimer” is managed so as to generate a time-out interrupt (internalinterrupt) sequentially at a prescribed or random cycle, wherebyinteraction processing B of FIG. 12(B) is executed on each occasion. Forexample, if “‘Interaction Timer’=10 minutes” is set in a hardware timercounter (not shown) within the CPU 21, the counter will be counted downat intervals of 10 ms. When the content of the counter eventuallybecomes “0”, the time-out interrupt is generated. Furthermore, the timercounter is set to 10 minutes (this value may be changed randomly) afreshby the interrupt acceptance processing, after which control shifts tointeraction processing B. It should be noted that the “InteractionTimer” may be managed so as to generate an actual-time interruptsequentially at prescribed or random times during one day.

One example of actual-time interrupt processing will now be described.When “Actual Time” is updated by the acceptance processing for acceptingthe RTC interrupt I1, this “Actual Time” and a prescribed time (e.g.,23:59) are compared. If the two agree, date change processing shown inFIGS. 8 to 11 is executed.

FIG. 4(B) illustrates a personal data file relating to management ofexercising (training). Each of the items of content are stored in aregister of the RAM 26 b.

To give an overview of this content, “Screen” represents the designatingnumber of a basic screen usually displayed through an exercise period;“Name” a name entered by the user (the user's own name or a pet namegiven to a character); “Date of Birth” the date of birth of the user;“Relative Date” a relative date for which the exercise starting date isused as the reference; “Goal Attainment Flag” a flag which indicateswhether a goal has been achieved or not; “Target Value” the target value(norm) of one day set in accordance with a user input or automaticallyby the instrument 10 when the instrument has measured, e.g., three daysof exercising by the user; “Present Time” the current time at which theoscillation sensor 31 sensed oscillation; “Previous Time” the previoustime at which the oscillation sensor 31 sensed oscillation; “WalkingCounter” the number of steps walked by the user; “Running Counter” thenumber of steps run by the user; “Evaluation Register” the total amountof exercise resulting from one day's walking or running by the user(where the value is calculated in terms of number of steps); “CumulativeRegister” the cumulative value of amount of exercise over three days (amonitoring period) that precede the start of exercising and then untilthe end of exercising; “Previous Attainment Rate” the goal attainmentrate of the previous day; “Present Attainment Rate” the present goalattainment rate; “Previous-Night Walking Counter” the number of stepstaken after midnight (e.g., from 2:00 to 4:00 A.M.) of the previous day;“Present-Night Walking Counter” the number of steps taken after midnight(e.g., from 2:00 to 4:00 A.M.) of the present day; “Character” a numberspecifying the form of a virtual organism (character); “Sleep Flag” aflag indicating whether a character is sleeping quietly or awake andactive; “Life Gauge” an index indicating a form (physique, life) basedupon the state of health of a character; “Wellness Meter” an indexindicating expression or motion based upon the psychological state(mood, vigor, vitality, etc.); “Pause Flag” a flag which controlswhether enumeration of amount of exercise is valid or invalid;“Biorhythm” a biorhythm that is calculated from the date of birth of theuser; “Time Index” an index which indicates one day's change(morning-type, evening-type) in the vigor of a character (i.e., theuser); and “Sound Flag” a flag for controlling whether or not sound isoutput.

It should be noted that a plurality (e.g., two) of personal data files26 b, 26 c are provided. Thus, the training regimens of two individualscan be managed by switching between users.

For example, two users can use the instrument 10 on alternate days, withone user being managed by the first file 26 b and the other user beingmanaged by the second file 26 c. If the two individuals compete and twomonths pass, the training results for two people (30 days per person)are obtained.

Alternatively, the two files are used by one individual. The first file26 b in this case is for business days of the week (Monday throughFriday) and the second file 26 c for days off (Saturday and Sunday),with goals being set respectively in dependence upon differences inlifestyle. Thus a plurality of training menus can be managed for oneperson.

Alternatively, the first file 26 b is actually used and the second file26 c is used as a dummy. At the time of actual illness (a cold, stomachache, etc.) or when the user cannot lead his or her usual life becauseof a business trip or the like, a changeover is made to the second file26 c and the first file 26 b is left as is in the meantime. Variousother methods of utilization are also conceivable.

FIG. 4(C) illustrates another common data file which does not change.This is stored in the ROM 25 a. To give an overview of the content,“Life Conversion Table” is a table (see FIG. 15) which decides theevolution and form (healthy, obese, etc.) of a character in accordancewith the life gauge of the character; “Calendar” a table having calendarinformation such as days of the week, seasons, holidays, Christmas,Olympics, etc., in accordance with the actual date; “Season Index” anindex (see FIG. 16) which indicates ease of living (comfort index,discomfort index, etc.) conforming to season; “Interactive-OutputExtraction Table” a table (see FIG. 17) which retains character imagesand message information extracted at the time of interaction with acharacter; “Weight Conversion Table” a table (see FIG. 20) forconverting character growth and life gauge to weight of the character;and “Character Pattern” various image information (see FIG. 5) relatingto character type, evolution, form (growth, physique, etc.), expression,motion (action), character-at-rest and conduct, etc.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for describing the forms of characters according tothis embodiment.

Various character images are stored in the ROM 25 in advance in regardto a time series relating to character, i.e., birth→evolution(infancy)→growth (juvenescent period, adolescent period)→final form(angel). Each of these character images is read out by a designatingnumber (s−ahf).

The initial “s” stands for the species of a character, in which “N”represents an organism (clay) of indeterminate form such as clay, “T”two legs, “F” four legs and “Z” legless organisms (animals in thisexample). The second “a” stands for a stage in the time series, such asbirth, evolution and growth of a character, in which “0” representsbirth, “1” evolution (infancy period), “2” juvenescent period, “3”adolescent period, and “4” final form (angel). The third “h” stands forthe state of health (physique, etc.) of a character, in which “4”represents healthy, “3” normal, “2” obese, “1” ill and “0” deceased. Thestate of health of a character is decided based upon the “life gauge”.The fourth “f” stands for the state of wellness of a character, in which“4” represents “good-humored”, “3” normal, “2” ill-humored and “1”melancholy. The state of wellness of a character is decided based mainlyupon a “wellness meter”.

Image information on a variety of species, evolution and growth stages,state of health and state of wellness (inclusive of action) can bespecified by a combination of the designating numbers “s”, “a”, “h” and“f”. By assigning various information to this designating number “s−ahf”in association with the progress of exercise, in a sense the informationbecomes one with the user and it becomes possible to express the stateof progress of an exercise externally and internally (psychologically)in dynamic and rich fashion via a character whose existence is differentfrom that of the user.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of main processing according to this embodiment.

A transition to this main processing is made when power is introduced tothe instrument 10 (or when the battery 33 is inserted or the powerswitch 34 switched from OFF to ON). Initial setting processing isexecuted at step S1. For example, the common data file 26 a and personaldata files 26 b, 26 c, etc. are created in the RAM 26 and the necessaryparameters are set to default values.

A clock setting screen is displayed on the LCD 27 at step S2. Ifnecessary, sound is output to the speaker 29. One example of a clocksetting screen is depicted in FIG. 18(A). The user employs keys to enterthe year (AD), month and day as well as the present time, and the CPU 21writes the entered date and time to “Actual Date” and “Actual Time” inRAM 26 a at step S3. A goal setting screen is then displayed at step S4.One example of a goal setting screen is illustrated in FIG. 18(B). Theuser enters his or her own name (or the pet name of a character), his orher own date of birth and, if necessary, a target value (number of stepsin one day) at step S5. The CPU 21 writes the entered name and date ofbirth to “Name” and “Date of Birth” in RAM 26 b.

It should be noted that the user need not set a target value at thispoint in time. In a case where the user does not set a target value,“Relative Date” is made day −3, for example, at step S6. In a case wherea target value has been set, the entered target value is set in “TargetValue” in RAM 26 at step S7 and “Relative Date” is made day 0 at stepS8. The number of a trial screen is set in “Screen” in RAM 26 b at stepS9.

Output editing processing at step S10 is processing which, in accordancewith the designating number of “Screen” in RAM 26 b, is for selectingand editing display (and alarm) information necessary for the displayscreen and outputting the information to the LCDC 28 and/or BBC 30. Theedited information is displayed on the LCD 27 and, if necessary, soundis output to the SPK 29, at step S11.

On the first day that power is introduced to the instrument, a trialscreen is displayed at step S11 as a result of the “‘SCREEN’←TRIAL”processing of step S9. One example of a trail screen is shown in FIG.18(C). Information such as today's date, actual time, actual number ofsteps (the content of the evaluation register) is selected and displayedon the LCD screen. In passing, the display of actual number of steps isincremented in dependence upon the number of steps when the user iswalking. If the user runs, however, the number of steps is increased atthe rate given by (number of steps)×(1.5 to 2.0) During the trial periodthe user uses the instrument 10 freely and can practice how to use theinstrument with a view to starting an exercise regimen.

In this example, the user has not set a target value. Accordingly, thefact that the relative date until the start of training is equal to day−3 is displayed and a monitoring period (three days) for the purpose ofsetting a goal starts from the next day (day −2). If the user has set atarget value, the fact that the relative date is equal to day 0 isdisplayed and training starts from the next day (day 1) It is determinedat step S12 whether an input has been made from a key. In case of noinput from a key, control returns to step S10. If the user walks duringthis interval, the content of the “Walking Counter” is increased and thenumber of steps displayed at step S11 is updated in real time. In a casewhere input from a key has been discriminated at step S12, theinformation input from the key is analyzed and the corresponding keyinput processing is validated at step S13. The processing for dealingwith the key input will be described later. If the reset key is pressedduring use of the instrument 10, control returns to step S4 so thatentry of a name and setting of a goal can be redone.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of exercise enumeration processing according tothis embodiment.

If the output signal S from the oscillation sensor 31 changes from “0”to “1”, the sensor interrupt I2 is generated and is applied to interruptprocessing for this oscillation sensor. The interrupt is accepted by theCPU 21 with the highest priority.

At step S71, “Actual Time” in RAM 26 a is set in “Present Time” of RAM26 b. As a result, “Present Time” retains the current oscillationdetection time. It is determined at step S72 whether “Present Time” isbetween 2:00 and 4:00 AM, by way of example. If the present time doesnot fall within these limits, it is determined at step S73 whether“Pause Flag”=1 (pause in effect) holds. If a pause is in effect,exercising is not enumerated and, hence, control returns to theprocessing that preceded interrupt processing. In order that oscillation(rocking, etc.) other than true exercise oscillation as sustained whenthe user is riding on a train or the like will not be inadvertentlyenumerated by the instrument 10, the “Pause Flag” can be set/reset atany time. Thus, only the amount of true exercise performed duringeveryday life will be enumerated.

If a pause is not in effect, processing for enumerating oscillation isperformed. That is, a time interval T of oscillation from the precedingpoint in time to the present point in time is obtained at step S74 inaccordance with time interval T=“Present Time”−“Previous Time”. Here the“Previous Time” retains the previous oscillation detection time. At stepS75, first it is determined whether a≦T<b holds in regard to the timeinterval T obtained. Here “a” is a threshold value, e.g., 0.2 s, whichis for distinguishing between simple bustling motion of both feet andordinary running motion. It also functions to eliminate a chatteringoutput from the oscillation sensor 31. Further, “b” represents athreshold value, e.g., 0.5 s, which is for distinguishing betweenordinary running motion and ordinary walking motion. If it is determinedat step S75 that a≦T<b holds, the “Running Counter” is incremented by +1at step S76. If a≦T<b does not hold, the processing of step S76 isskipped.

Next, it is determined at step S77 whether b≦T<c holds in regard to thetime interval T obtained. Here “c” represents a threshold value, e.g., 2s, which is for distinguishing between ordinary walking motion and othermotion, e.g., oscillation produced sporadically over comparatively longintervals. If it is determined at step S77 that b≦T<c holds, the“Running Counter” is incremented by +1 at step S78. If b≦T<c does nothold, the processing of step S78 is skipped. Thus, unnatural oscillationis not enumerated; only oscillation that is based upon naturaloscillation such as walking or running is enumerated.

The value of (“Walking Counter”+α×“Running Counter”) is stored in“Evaluation Register” at step S79. Here α represents a coefficient forcalculating a number of steps that have been run in terms of a number ofsteps that have been walked. For example, α=1.5 to 2.0. It is determinedat step S80 whether “Goal Attainment Flag”=1 holds. In case of GoalAttainment Flag”=0, it is determined at step S81 whether “EvaluationRegister”=“Target Value” holds.

In this embodiment, the device is initialized to “Target Value”=FFFFH(where H represents a hexadecimal) prior to a manual or automaticsetting and at this point in time, therefore, “EvaluationRegister”=“Target Value” cannot hold. Processing in this interval,therefore, proceeds to step S84. On the other hand, if “Relative Date”is a day from the first day onward, then “Target Value” will have beenset. If “Evaluation Register”=“Target Value” is determined to hold atstep S81 in this case, then “Target Attainment Flag”=1 is established atstep S82. The goal attainment screen is displayed temporarily andfanfare is output from the SPK 29 at step S83. Accordingly, the user isinformed in real-time of the instant of goal attainment. “PresentAttainment Rate”=(“Evaluation Register”)/(“Target Value”) is obtained atstep S84. This “Present Attainment Rate” is obtained continuously bothprior to goal attainment (when “N” is the decision rendered at step S81)and after goal attainment (when “Y” is the decision rendered at stepS80). Thus “Present Attainment Rate” is updated in real time. “PresentTime” in RAM 26 b is stored in “Previous Time” at step S84.

In a case where it is determined at step S72 that “Present Time” isbetween 2:00 and 4:00 A.M., the “Present-Night Walking Counter” isincremented by +1 at step S86 and control proceeds to step S85. In thisembodiment, the filtering processing of steps S75, S77 is not applied tooscillation during this period of time. Consequently, not only ordinarywalking and running but even oscillation such as bustling motion of bothfeet and irregular disco dancing or the like are enumerated as simplenighttime pleasure seeking and are not treated as the exercise regimen.Since oscillation during this period of time is counted unconditionallyirrespective of the “Pause Flag”, the user is coaxed to lead a morehealthy life.

In this embodiment, the time interval T of oscillation is obtained inaccordance with the calculation T=“Present Time ”−“Previous Time”,though this does not impose a limitation. For example, a hardware timercircuit for counting pulse intervals in the output of the oscillationsensor 31 may be provided. This timer circuit would be restartedwhenever oscillation is sensed and would then count the time up to thenext time oscillation is sensed. A timer interrupt would be generated ina case where the counted time T satisfies a≦T<c, but no timer interruptwould be generated in any other cases. Providing such a hardware timercircuit makes it possible to simplify and speed up the oscillationsensor interrupt processing of FIG. 7. In addition, the registers for“Present Time” and “Previous Time” in RAMs 26 b, 26 c can be eliminated.

FIGS. 8 through 11 are flowcharts (1) to (4) of processing for changingdate according to this embodiment. When “Actual Time” in RAM 26 a comesto indicate the end of the day (e.g., 23:59), a transition to this datechanging processing is made.

In FIG. 8., processing branches at step S20 in conformity with the“Relative Date” in RAM 26 b. In case of “Relative Date”=day −3, thetarget creation screen is set in “Screen” of RAM 26 b at step S21. The“Walking Counter”, “Running Counter”, “Present-Night Walking Counter”and “Evaluation Register” are reset at step S22. “Relative Date” isincremented by +1 and control returns to the processing that precededdate changing processing at step S23. One example of a target creationscreen is illustrated in FIG. 18(D). Actual date, actual time, relativedate (day −2) up to the start of exercising, today's number of steps(the content of the “Evaluation Register”) and message information tothe effect that target creation is in progress are displayed on thisscreen.

With reference again to FIG. 8, if “Relative Date”=day −2, −1 holds, thecontent of “Evaluation Register” on this day is added to the “CumulativeRegister” at step S24 and control proceeds to the processing of stepS22, which is the same for each of these days.

In a case where “Relative Date” =day 0 holds, this means midnight priorto the start of the exercise regimen. Birth is set in “Screen” at stepS25 and an indeterminate organism (clay) is set in “Character” at stepS26. An initial value (e.g., 6) is set in “Life Gauge” at step S27, andan initial value (e.g., 7) is set in “Wellness Meter” at step S28.

It is determined at step S29 whether “Target Value”=FFFFH holds. In caseof “Target Value”≠FFFFH, a target value will already have been setmanually by the user and, hence, control proceeds to step S22. In a casewhere “Target Value”=FFFFH holds, this means a target value has not beenset. At step S30, therefore, the content of the “Evaluation Register” ofthe third day is added to “Cumulative Register”. “TargetValue”=[(cumulative value)/3] is obtained at step S31.

The symbol [ ] represents processing for raising fractions below the100's place to 1000 steps or cutting these off to zero steps. Therelationship between “Actual Date” in RAM 26 a and the “Calendar”information in ROM 25 preferably is taken into consideration in makingthis decision. For example, in a case where “Actual Date” belongs to aseason (March 1st to May 31st and September 1st to November 30th) suitedto exercising, fractions are raised; they are discarded in other cases.Accordingly, if the average value over three days is equal to 5326steps, the “Target Value” will be 6000 steps or 5000 steps dependingupon the season. The user thenceforth enters upon the first day ofexercising (training). One example of a display screen (basic screen)for birth of a character is illustrated in FIG. 18(E). Here content suchas target value, relative date, character (clay) and life gauge (heartsymbols) are displayed.

It should be noted that in output editing processing (step S10 in FIG.6) following character birth, the “Sleep Flag” in FIG. 4 is examined. Incase of “Sleep Flag”=0 (awake), an energetic character such as one whichmoves around the screen is displayed. In case of “Sleep Flag”=1(sleeping), a sleeping character such as shown in FIG. 19(F) isdisplayed instead. Control of the “Sleeping Flag” is described in FIG.14. In output editing processing from the trial screen onward, the“Pause Flag” is examined. In case of “Pause Flag”=1 (pause in effect),the letter “P” is displayed on part of the screen, whereby the user canascertain that a pause is in effect. In case of “PauseFlag”=0 (pause notin effect), the letter “P” is not displayed.

Proceeding to FIG. 9, it is determined at step S35 whether “GoalAttainment Flag”=1 holds in a case where “Relative Date”=day 1 to day 27(the final day in this example) holds. If goal attainment flag=0 (goalunattained) holds, “Life Gauge” is decrementedby −1 at step S36. If goalattainment flag=1 (goal attained) holds, “Life Gauge” is incremented by+1 at step S37. The “Goal Attainment Flag” is reset at step S38. Thus,irrespective of the number of steps taken that day, “Life Gauge” variesdepending upon whether the goal is attained or not. For this reason theinstrument 10 is more like an exercise assisting meter that placesimportance upon goal attainment.

It is determined at step S39 whether “Relative Date”=day 3. In case ofday 3, “Life Gauge” is evaluated at step S40. The evaluation is thatthis is the third day (character evolution) following the start ofexercising. On the basis of the result of evaluation of “Life Gauge”,the number of evolution corresponding to “Character” is set sing a lifeconversion table, described below.

FIG. 15 is a diagram for describing the life conversion table accordingto this embodiment.

FIG. 15(A) illustrates a life conversion table used when a characterevolves. By way of example, when “Life Gauge” =8 holds, clay, which hasbeen the common character thus far, evolves to a character representing“two legs; infant; normal”. When “LifeGauge”=7 holds, the same clayevolves to a character representing “four legs; infancy; normal”.Evolution occurs in similar fashion from this point onward. The factthat a daily goal has or has not been attained in the three daysfollowing the start of exercising appears as evolution to a differentspecies irrespective of the magnitude of the set target value.Accordingly, exercising seriously every day is advisable. If the usergrows lazy, he or she cannot evolve into a human being. Moreover, once alower species (four legs or no legs) has been decided, mutation to ahigher species cannot be achieved through ordinary effort. Consequently,a user who has become lazy in this interval of time comes to appreciatethe importance of attaining the daily goal. One example of a displayscreen at the time of evolution is shown in FIG. 18(F). A livelytwo-legged juvenile character moves about the screen, and eight heartsymbols corresponding to “Life Gauge”=8 light up. A target value orpresent number of steps also is displayed concurrently if necessary. Theform (state of health) of the character from the fourth day onwardvaries in accordance with the “Life Gauge” from day to day. Furthermore,it is also possible to change the character or motion of the characterin accordance with the “Wellness Meter”.

FIG. 15(B) illustrates a life conversion table used in a growth period(the fourth day onward following the start of exercising). By way ofexample, when “Life Gauge”=8 holds, the character grows to “n legs;healthy” (where n=2/4/none). When “LifeGauge”=7 to 6 holds, thecharacter grows to “n legs; normal”. If “LifeGauge”=3 holds because oflaziness, then illness results. If “Life Gauge”=0 holds, the characterdies.

With reference again to FIG. 9, it is determined at step S42 whether“Relative Date”=day 13 holds. In case of day 13, an n-legged juvenile isset in “Character” at step S43 and a jingle about the joys of growth isset as the audio data at step S43. It should be noted that since thecharacter is sleeping during this period of time, the growth screen andthe sound of joy are output the next morning. In case of “RelativeDate”≠day 13, this processing is skipped. One example of a displayscreen for when growth to a juvenile is achieved is illustrated in FIG.18(G). The user can directly experience that exercising is accumulatingday by day through the growth of the character on the screen.

It is determined at step S44 whether “Relative Date”=23 holds. In caseof day 23, an n-legged young man is set in “Character” at step S45 and ajingle about the joys of growth is set as the audio data at step S45. Incase of “Relative Date”≠day 23, this processing is skipped. One exampleof a display screen for when growth to a young man is achieved isillustrated in FIG. 18(H). Since the user has become lazy at this time,however, the character grows obese and is not lively on this particularday.

Proceeding to FIG. 10, it is determined at step S46 whether “RelativeDate”=day 5 to day 27 (the final day) In case of day 5 to day 27, thegoal attainment rate over two days, namely at the present time and theday before, is evaluated at step S47. It is determined at step S48whether Evaluation>A holds. For example, in case of “Previous AttainmentRate”≧150% and “Present Attainment Rate”≧150%, the relation Evaluation>Ais satisfied. In this case a mutation (to a species one rank higher) isset in “Character” at step S49. However, if the character is currentlythe highest species, mutation to a higher species is not possible.Though it is permissible for the form (health) of a character at thetime a mutation has occurred to be the lowest rank (ill) of a higherspecies, in this example the form is in accordance with the “Life Gauge”at this point in time. Though mutation to a species one rank lower thanthat of the character may be provided, in this embodiment it is notprovided. Consequently, unless the user can maintain a certain paceafter striving carelessly, the character will die. In order to gain amutation, therefore, considerable preparedness is required.

If it is determined at step S48 that Evaluation>A does not hold, then itis determined at step S50 whether Evaluation>B holds. For example, incase of “Previous Attainment Rate”≧120% and “Present AttainmentRate”>120%, the relation Evaluation>B is satisfied. In this case “TargetValue” is changed to, e.g., 1.1 times the present value at step S51. Asa result, even in case of a target value (norm) set low by the user orby the instrument, the target value can be raised automatically in thecourse of an exercise.

If it is determined at step S50 that Evaluation>B does not hold, then itis determined at step S52 whether Evaluation<C holds. For example, incase of “Previous Attainment Rate”<80% and “Present AttainmentRate”<80%, the relation Evaluation<C is satisfied. In this case “TargetValue” is changed to, e.g., 0.9 times the present value at step S53. Asa result, even in case of a target value (norm) set high by the user orby the instrument, the target value can be lowered automatically in thecourse of an exercise. Thus, by making it possible to change the norm inmid-course, boredom due monotonous exercising can be eliminated.

If it is determined at step S52 that Evaluation<C does not hold, then itis determined at step S54 whether “Life Gauge”=0 holds. In case of “LifeGauge”=0, the character dies. Deceased is set in “Screen” and a sadjingle is set as the audio data at step S55. The character displayed inthis case dies with n legs intact. One example of a display screen whena two-juvenile dies is shown in FIG. 19(A). It should be noted that in acase where an expression to the effect that failure at exercising isequal to death of a character is too direct (extreme), an expressionthat signifies failure indirectly, such as leaving a letter behind andrunning away from home, may be used. Validation of date changingprocessing is denied at step S56. “Relative Date” thenceforth does notadvance, the screen freezes and the exercise regimen essentially ends. Auser whose exercising has ended in the death of a character is left witha feeling of great dejection and unsatisfactory health. It should benoted that if the decision rendered at step S46 is that “Relative Date”is equal to a day other than day 5 to day 27, the decision stepsmentioned above are not executed.

Proceeding to FIG. 11, it is determined at step S61 whether “RelativeDate”=day 27 (the final day) holds. In case of “Relative Date”=day 27,termination is set in “Screen” at step S62 and execution of datechanging processing is denied at step S63. It is determined at step S64whether “Life Gauge”=8 holds. In case of “Life Gauge”=8, an n-leggedangel is set in “Character” at step S65. One example of a display screenfor the final form of a two-legged young man is illustrated in FIG.19(B). The angel has grown wings as if praising the accomplishment ofthe user. A user whose exercising has ended in an angel is left with afeeling of great satisfaction and satisfactory health. In case of“LifeGauge”≠8, exercise ends in an n-legged young man as is. If it isdetermined at step S61 that “Relative Date”≠day 27 holds, theabove-described processing is skipped.

“Present Attainment Rate” is set in “Prior Attainment Rate” and “PresentAttainment Rate” is reset at step S66. “Present-Night Walking Counter”is set in “Previous-Night Walking Counter” at step S67 and“Present-Night Walking Counter” is reset at step S67. “EvaluationRegister” is added to “Cumulative Register” at step S68 and controlreturns to step S22 in FIG. 8.

It should be noted that the processing of steps S50 to S53 in FIG. 10may be eliminated. “Target Value” in such case cannot be changed duringthe course of exercising. It can be said that this is the methodpreferred by users who are accustomed to exercising.

Further, the processing of steps S54 to S56 may be eliminated. In thiscase, if the user perseveres even after the character has died, thecharacter can be revived. At any rate, exercising can be continued untilthe final day. It can be said that this is the method preferred bybeginners.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are flowcharts (1), (2) of character interactionprocessing according to this embodiment. Since the character has a lifeof its own on the screen, basically the character cannot be controlleddirectly. However, if the “OK” key is pressed on, say, a basic screen onwhich the character is active, the expression of the character, textmessages and sounds will be issued depending upon the state of wellnessof the character.

FIG. 12(A) is a flowchart of interaction processing A. A transition tothis processing is made when the “OK” key is pressed on the basic screenon which a character is active. “Wellness Meter” is updated at step S91.

FIG. 16 is a diagram for describing the wellness meter according to thisembodiment. The “Wellness Meter” is a 10-stage index indicating thewellness (mood, vigor, vitality, etc.) of a character (i.e., the user)and is changed subtly by various factors described below.

FIG. 16A illustrates the “Biorhythm” of the user. This obtained from the“Date of Birth” of the user. The portion corresponding to the “ActualDate” (e.g., March 23rd) is stored in RAM 26. Though a biorhythmcomprises various periodic curves representing creativity, emotions andthe like, a curve representing emotion, for example, is utilized.Alternatively, each curve may be analyzed and wellness curves may begenerated anew. “Season Index” in FIG. 16(B) illustrates degree ofcomfort conforming to season. The portion corresponding to “Actual Date”is read out of the ROM 25. In general, spring (March through May) andautumn (September through November) are comfortable and one's mood isconsidered to be refreshed. Since winter (December through February) iscold, one is confined to one's home, there is little opportunity forexercise and going outside is troublesome. Further, June is the rainyseason, July is very hot and August brings the heat of late summer. Thediscomfort index is high for these months, one loses stamina (becomesweary from the heat) and loses vigor. “Time Index” in FIG. 16(C)indicates vitality (vigor) conforming to time over one day. One day'scurve is stored in RAM 26 and the portion corresponding to “Actual Time”is read out of RAM 26. Though a method of generating the “Time Index” isnot illustrated, such an index can be analyzed and generated easily byobtaining daily activity patterns (e.g., histograms of “Number of StepsWalking” and “Number of Steps Running” per hour) during the usermonitoring period and the following exercising period. Since the user inthis example tends to exhibit little activity in the morning and muchactivity at night, the curve is of the type indicating activity atnight, as illustrated. An even simpler expedient is to store ordinarymorning-and evening-type curves beforehand and have the user select oneon the goal setting screen.

FIG. 16(D) illustrates daily goal attainment rate. “Previous AttainmentRate” of the previous data and “Present Attainment Rate” of the presentday are retained in the RAM 26 b. FIG. 16(E) illustrates a daily “NightWalkingCounter”. “Previous-Night Walking Counter” of the previous dayand “Present-Night Walking Counter” of the present day are retained inthe RAM 26 b.

Basically, the “Wellness Meter” is obtained based upon a weightedevaluation of each of the values of the above-mentioned “Biorhythm”,“Season Index” and “Time Index” and “Goal Attainment Rate Evaluation”.Here the first weight of weighted evaluation is placed on evaluation ofgoal attainment rate. For example, goal attainment rate is evaluated bywhichever of “Previous Attainment Rate” and “Present Attainment Rate” islarger.

This method of evaluation will be described in detail in accordance withFIG. 16(D). In the morning of the present day (day 23), this day'sexercising has not yet been expended and therefore the “PresentAttainment Rate” is a low 40%. If the “Previous Attainment Rate” (day22) is 100% or greater in this case, the evaluation (wellness meter) ofgoal attainment rate will be high and the character will behigh-spirited starting from the morning. In this example, however, the“Previous Attainment Rate” is a low 60% and, hence, the character islow-spirited in the morning of this day. The feeling of a user who didnot attain the goal the previous day shows up in the expression andconduct of the character. Here the user on the present day perseveres inexercising in the latter half of the day. As a result, the “PresentAttainment Rate” rises rapidly, eventually surpasses the “PreviousAttainment Rate” and approaches 100%, whereupon the “Wellness Meter”also rises and the character becomes high-spirited.

The second weight of weighted evaluation is placed on “Biorhythm”, forexample. If the evaluation of goal attainment rate is high and“Biorhythm” also is high, so is “Wellness Meter” and the character is inthe best possible condition. On the other hand, if the evaluation ofgoal attainment rate is high but “Biorhythm” is low, “Wellness Meter”does not rise very much and the character's condition does not improvevery much. Conversely, if the evaluation of goal attainment rate is lowbut “Biorhythm” is high, “Wellness Meter” rises unusually and thecharacter appears not to mind non-attainment of the previous day's goal.

The third weight of weighting evaluation is placed on “Time Index”, forexample, as a result of which one day of vigorous rhythm of the user istaken into account in “Wellness Meter”. For example, the mood of a nightperson is not good in the morning. In this case, even if the evaluationof goal attainment rate is high, for some reason the character does notachieve the best condition in the morning. When afternoon arrives,however, the condition of the character improves in the same manner asthat of the user.

The fourth weight of weighting evaluation is placed on “Season Index”,for example, as a result of which a sense of the season is taken intoaccount in “Wellness Meter”. It is difficult to attain the bestcondition during the rainy season or in the period when one becomesweary from the heat.

A random number may also be taken into account as a fifth weight ofweighting evaluation. If a random number is taken into account,“Wellness Meter” also will fluctuate irregularly, although onlyslightly, and the character will exhibit some capriciousness.

It should be noted that “Life Gauge” may be taken into account in theevaluation of “Wellness Meter” described above. However, when referenceis made to the actual life of a human being, there are instances wherethe character is low-spirited even though the form of the character ishealthy, and it is possible for the form of a character to exhibit goodspirits even though the character is obese. Accordingly, in thisembodiment, “Wellness Meter” and “Life Gauge” are treated separately.That is, “Life Gauge” represents state of health which is anaccumulation of evaluation of goal attainment/non-attainment over alonger span of time. “Wellness Meter”, on the other hand, placesimportance on “Previous Attainment Rate” and “Present Attainment Rate”and represents emotional state over a shorter span of time. “NightWalking Counter in FIG. 16(E) can be said to be a parameter forevaluating conduct rather than the spirits of the character. If the“Previous-Night Walking Counter” or “Present-Night Walking Counter”surpasses 200 steps, for example, the character is evaluated as showingdelinquent tendencies. Even if the user is serious today, thedelinquency evaluation will not soon be removed if the user was pleasureseeking the previous night.

With reference again to FIG. 12, output information indicative ofinteraction responses is extracted at step S92. Output informationindicative of interaction responses includes not only characters butalso text messages.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for describing an interaction-output extractiontable according to this embodiment.

In the processing of step S92 for extracting output information, one,two or more items that satisfy “Conditions” are extracted in regard to“Evaluated Elements” in this table, these are selected in accordancewith a predetermined order of priority (e.g., a cyclic order of priorityin which an item once output is placed at the tail end), or are selectedrandomly, and then output. The updated “Wellness Meter” mentioned abovealso is included in “Evaluated Elements”.

Processing for extracting output information at step S92 will now bedescribed in detail. First, by way of example, the following items areextracted as satisfying the respective “Conditions” in regard to the“Evaluated Elements” of the table:

“Congratulations on attaining your norma!” (text message) if “PresentAttainment Rate”=100% holds;

“Picture of a delinquent character” if “Previous-Night WalkingCounter”=200 steps holds;

“Walked from Nihonbashi to Kyoto” if n3=“Cumulative Register”=n4 holds;

“Don't keep such late hours” (evening greeting) if “Actual Time”=eveningholds;

“Spring languid all day!” (seasonal greeting) if “Actual Date”=springholds;

“03-1234-5678” (number of special telephone service) if there is nocondition; and

“lun lun lun” (mood or encouragement message) if there is no condition.

With reference again to FIG. 12, first “Congratulations on attainingyour norm!”, for example, is selected and displayed on the LCD displayat step S93. In case of a musical note symbol, the corresponding soundis output to the SPK 29 at the same time. The next input from a key isawaited at step S94. If there is an input from a key, it is determinedat step S95 whether the key is an add-on key. If the key is the “OK” keyon the interaction response screen, then this key is the add-on key. Incase of the add-on key, the selection of the output information ischanged at step S96 and control returns to step S93. In this example,the image of a “Delinquent Character” is displayed next at step S93.Even though the user has been complemented, the user's nighttimepleasure seeking has been found out. Similar processing continues. Whenit is eventually determined at step S95 that a key is not the add-onkey, this processing is exited.

Examples of display screens for interaction response processing areshown in FIGS. 19(C) to (E).

In order for a character image on the interaction response screen inthis embodiment to express the internal mood or conduct of a charactermore richly and with a deeper impression, the character appears as animage having a greater freedom of expression (a more abstract image)without being confined to the species or form (physique, growth) ofcharacters shown on the basic screen. In addition, the characterperforms various actions in dependence upon the mood of the character.

FIG. 19 (C) shows a state in which “Wellness Meter”=7 (cheerful). Thecharacter has a smiling face, frequently acts happily and occasionallydoes somersaults. The heart symbols correspond to the “Wellness Meter”.

FIG. 19(D) shows a state in which “Wellness Meter”=4 (lazy). Thecharacter usually appears dissatisfied, often dozes off and frequentlyacts unhappily. If oscillation is applied to the instrument 10 while thecharacter is dozing, the character suddenly jumps up. Processing forthis control is not illustrated but can be implemented with ease bydetecting an increase in “Evaluation Register” while the character isdozing.

FIG. 19(E) shows a state in which the character is tending toward“Delinquency”. A pall is cast over the screen and a squatting boywearing sunglasses is smoking a cigarette. The user who has become awareof the delinquency of the character repents his or her own nighttimepleasure-seeking and refrains from such pleasure seeking the next day.

In a case where the character is sleeping quietly (“Sleep Flag”=1),basically this interaction processing A is not executed. However, it ispermissible to adopt an arrangement wherein the interaction processing Ais executed, in which case the user receives the impression ofinteracting with a sleeping character while dreaming.

FIG. 12 (B) is a flowchart of interaction processing B. A transition tothis processing is made by an interrupt when a timer that operates inthe “Interaction Timer” of RAM 26 a times out.

Interaction processing B, which is independent of operation of the “OK”key by the user, includes updating “Wellness Meter” to an appropriatetiming utilizing the internal “Interaction Timer”, extracting one, twoor more items of output information which satisfy conditions, adding atext message to a character being displayed on the basic screen, orautomatically applying a change that conforms to the “WellnessMeter” tothe expression or action of the character being displayed. “WellnessMeter” is updated at step S97 in a manner similar to that of step S91,and output information is extracted at step S98 in a manner similar tothat of step S92. At this time the interaction-output extraction tableof FIG. 17 may be used or an interaction-output extraction tableexclusively for this processing may be separately provided. The currentoutput information is selected from the above-mentioned extractedinformation and the expression of the character is updated at step S99.

For example, a text message “You're almost there, so try harder” isappended to the character on the basic screen just prior to goalattainment. If necessary, a sound of encouragement is output to the SPK29. In a case where the “Wellness Meter” is declining, on the otherhand, the expression of the character is changed to a darker expressionand a text message “Have you been loafing recently?” is append to thecharacter at the same time.

Thus, a character on the basic screen not only evolves, grows and movesabout the screen in a form (physique, etc.) in accordance with the “LifeGauge” (state of health) but also undergoes a change in expression andexhibits a variety of motions (actions) in accordance with the “WellnessMeter” at this time. It is just as if the character were behaving as anactual living thing. Moreover, the character sleeps when “Sleep Flag”=1holds.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of game processing. When the “→” key ispressed on the basic screen, a transition to this game (e.g., slotmachine) processing is made. When the wellness of character (i.e., theuser) is not good, the game is played to perk up the user. The screen ofa slot machine is displayed at step S101. One example of a displayscreen of a slot-machine game is illustrated in FIG. 19(G). Apples andbananas appear side by side on the screen. This is a screen on which awinning combination has been missed. When three apples line uphorizontally, this means a hit on a winning combination. Heart symbolsat this time represent the “Wellness Meter” or “Life Gauge”.

Input from a key is awaited at step S102. When there is an input from akey, it is determined at step S103 whether the key is a lever key. Ifthe key is the “→” key on the screen of the slot machine, this is thelever key. In case of the lever key, a slot-machine operation based uponrandom numbers and probability is performed at step S104. The higher the“Wellness Meter”, the higher the probability applied; the lower the“Wellness Meter”, the lower the probability. The “Wellness Meter” isgreatly dependent upon the evaluation of goal attainment rate. When theuser loafs and the “Wellness Meter” declines, therefore, a winningcombination will not be hit upon unless the user plays the game a lot.Accordingly, if the user exercises today without getting lazy, the“Wellness Meter” rises and so does the probability of winning. Since the“Wellness Meter” fluctuates subtly due to other factors (time index,random numbers, etc.), the timing at which the game is played also isimportant.

It is determined at step S105 whether the slot-machine operation has hitupon a winning combination. In case of a hit, “Life Gauge” (or the“Wellness Meter” if desired) is incremented by +1 at step S106. If thegoal of exercising is attained on this day, is it possible for “LifeGauge” to be incremented by a total of +2. This processing is skipped ifa winning combination is missed. A screen showing the results of theslot-machine operation is displayed at step S107. If a winningcombination is missed, a screen to this effect is displayed and controlreturns to the processing of step S102. If the lever key is pressedfurther, the slot-machine game can be played any number of times. Incase of a hit, a screen to this effect is displayed at step S107. Incase of a hit, a fanfare is also output at the same time. One example ofa hit screen is illustrated in FIG. 19(H). Here three apples line up ina row and the “Life Gauge” is raised from 4 to 5.

With reference again to FIG. 13, processing is exited if it isdetermined at step S103 that the key is not the lever key.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of other control processing according to thisembodiment.

The character on the basic screen leads an orderly life in which thecharacter rises regularly (e.g., between 5:00 and 7:00 in the morning)and goes to bed regularly (e.g., between 9:00 and 10:00 P.M.).

FIG. 14(A) illustrates a flowchart of rise processing. A transition torise processing is made when the condition “Actual Time”=5:00 issatisfied, for example. The “Sleep Flag” is set to 0 (the wake-up state)at step S111 and control returns to the validation processing thatpreceded interrupt processing.

FIG. 14(B) illustrates a flowchart lights-out processing. A transitionto lights-out processing is made when the condition “Actual Time”=21:00is satisfied, for example. The “Sleep Flag” is set to 1 (the sleepstate) at step S112 and control returns to the validation processingthat preceded interrupt processing.

Further, it is possible for the user to put an awake character to sleep.

FIG. 14(C) illustrates a flowchart of processing for putting a characterto sleep. If, say, the “←” key and “→” key are pressed simultaneously onthe basic screen where the character is awake (“Sleep Flag”=0), atransition to this sleep processing is made. The “Sleep Flag” is set to1 (sleep) at step S113 and this processing is exited.

Further, it is possible for the user to wake up a sleeping character.

FIG. 14(D) illustrates a flowchart of processing for waking up acharacter. If, say, the “←” key and “→” key are pressed simultaneouslyon the basic screen where the character is sleeping (“Sleep Flag”=1), atransition to this wake-up processing is made. The “Sleep Flag” is setto 0 (awake) at step S114 and this processing is exited.

If the instrument 10 is so adapted that interaction with a sleepingcharacter cannot be performed in a dream, a sleeping character can beawakened by providing this wake-up processing, thereby making possiblethe interaction of FIG. 12(A).

Furthermore, the user can turn off (pause) the oscillation enumerationprocessing of the instrument 10 at any time. FIG. 14(E) illustrates aflowchart of pause setting processing. If, say, the “→” key and “OK” keyare pressed simultaneously in a state in which “Pause Flag”=0 (no pause)holds, a transition to this pause setting processing is made. The “PauseFlag” is set to 1 (pause) at step S115 and this processing is exited.

The user can turn on (no pause) the oscillation enumeration processingof the instrument 10 at any time. FIG. 14(F) illustrates a flowchart ofpause release processing. If, say, the “→” key and “OK” key are pressedsimultaneously in a state in which “Pause Flag”=1 (pause) holds, atransition to this pause release processing is made. The “Pause Flag” isset to 0 (no pause) at step S116 and this processing is exited.

Though not illustrated, an arrangement can be adopted in which thecharacter appears in poor humor and cries out unless two or more hoursof oscillation are applied between 9:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. Furthermore,though not illustrated, a screen display and the required operationdescribed below are possible by pressing a specific key.

The “Name”, age, “Life Gauge” and weight, etc., of the user (orcharacter) are displayed in text on a “Status Screen”. The age isobtained from the “Date of Birth”. The weight is obtained from the forminformation of the character.

FIG. 20 illustrates a weight conversion table for characters accordingto this embodiment.

Basically, an n-legged initial state (clay) is converted to 20 g and “nlegs; infant; healthy” is converted to 35 g. The units may be kilogramsif desired. Conversions are made in similar fashion in the rest of thetable. The actual displayed weight is obtained by adding random numbersof ±1 to the results of conversion. Since one is informed of weight by anumerical value and not only of the form of the character, the state ofgrowth and state of health of the character can be recognizednumerically.

Further, “Present Attainment Rate”, number of days goals were obtainedthus far and number of days goals were not obtained thus far aredisplayed numerically on the “Norm Screen”. The number of days goalswere obtained and number of days goals were not obtained are accumulatedand retained in counters (not shown) in RAM 26. The number of days goalswere obtained and number of days goals were not obtained are goodcriteria for evaluating long-term exercising. “Actual Time” and caloriesconsumed thus far, etc., are displayed on a “Clock Screen”. Thenumerical display of “Actual Time” takes the place of a clock. Further,the value of calories consumed is obtained from “Evaluation Register” or“Cumulative Register”. The former represents calories consumed daily andthe latter represents total calories consumed after the start ofexercising (inclusive of the monitoring period).

The clock can be set on a “Clock Setting Screen” while exercising is inprogress.

A “Personal File Pointer” in FIG. 4(A) can be changed on a “UserSwitching Screen” to change over the personal data file that is to bemanaged.

Furthermore, the “Sound Flag” can be ON/OFF-controlled by a specific keyoperation. In case of “Sound Flag”=0 (OFF), sound is not output to theSPK 29. In case of “Sound Flag”=1 (ON), sound is output to the SPK 29.When “Sound Flag”=1 holds, musical notes appear on the right side of thescreen, thereby informing the user that sound can be heard.

FIGS. 21, 22 are timing charts (1), (2) of walking for trainingaccording to this embodiment. FIG. 21 illustrates a case where acharacter does not undergo mutation.

A target value is set automatically to 9000 steps by monitoringmeasurement over the three days that precede the start of monitoring. Itis unnecessary for the user to count the number of steps taken everyday. If the user simply walks (or runs) in a normal manner in accordancewith a daily time schedule, the target value will be set. This isconvenient. It should be noted that if the user is accustomed toexercising, the user may set the target value manually.

Clay (Life Gauge=6) is born on the first day at the start of exercising,and seeing what species the clay will evolve into over the next threedays is enjoyable. If the goal is attained every day, “Life Gauge” risesto 7 or 8. “Life Gauge” peaks at 8. Since the value of “Life Gauge”cannot be put aside as savings, it is important to think ahead andattain the goal every day without over-exerting oneself.

As the result of attaining one's norm faithfully for three days, thecharacter evolves to “two legs; infant; healthy” (Life Gauge=8) on thefourth day. Although the goal is not attained on the eighth day, theperiod of infancy progresses well overall.

On the 14th day, the character grows to “two legs; juvenile; normal”(life gauge=7). From about this time a slump begins and “Life Gauge”declines steadily day by day. “Life Gauge” falls by the same −1 at goalattainment rates of both 99% and 30%. Perhaps noticing this, the userdoes almost no exercise other than that necessary for daily life (suchas commuting to work or school) during this period. Since the user hasengaged in nighttime pleasure-seeking as well, a delinquent characteralso appears on the screen in random fashion. On the 17th day,therefore, the user tries harder and attains the goal and, in addition,hits upon a winning combination in the slot-machine game, as a result ofwhich “Life Gauge” is elevated by a total of +2 on this day. The userthenceforth manages to persevere and the character grows to “two legs,adolescent, healthy” (life gauge=8) on the 24th day. The user thenperseveres further and, as a result, is capable of eventually ending thepresent exercise regimen in the form “two legs; adolescent; angel”.

FIG. 22 shows a case where a character undergoes a mutation.

Clay born on the first day subsequently fails to endeavor sufficientlyand, hence, evolves to “no legs; infant; normal” on the fourth day.Effort then remains flat but, in the latter half of the period, the usermanages to try harder, as a result of which the character grows in themanner obese→ill→normal in a state in which the character is a leglessinfant. The character grows to “no legs; juvenile; healthy” on the 14thday. However, a user who has gained strength can no longer findsatisfaction in the light exercising perform thus far.

Accordingly, the user strives on days 15 and 16, attains a level that is1.5 times the norm on these consecutive days and achieves a mutation(warp) to the higher species, i.e., “four legs; juvenile; healthy”, onthe 17th day. At the same time, the norm is increased by 10%, making theexercising environment more severe. Though the user then tires somewhat,the user gains further strength and, remembering the fun of the warp,strives further on days 20 and 21, attaining a level that is 1.5 timesthe currently prevailing norm on these consecutive days. As a result,the character experiences a warp from “four legs; juvenile; obese” to astill higher species, i.e., “two legs; juvenile; obese”. At the sametime, the norm is increased a further 10%, making the exercisingenvironment even more severe. However, since only a few days remain, theuser decides to strive and makes the effort. As a result, the user iscapable of eventually ending the present exercise regimen in the form“two legs; adolescent; angel”.

FIGS. 23 and 24 are diagrams (1), (2) for describing forms of using theexercise assisting meter according to this embodiment.

In FIG. 23(A), the user carries the instrument 10 on his or her waistand walks.

In FIG. 23(B), the user carries the instrument 10 on his or her waistand enjoys a running machine 100 at an athletics center (fitness club)or the like. The instrument 10 senses such exercising effectively andcauses this to be reflected in the “Life Gauge”.

In FIG. 23(C), a user who has tired of the running machine 100 shifts toa pectoral-muscle (back-muscle) strengthening machine 101 to harden thearm, chest and shoulder muscles, etc.

The machine 101 has a function for servicing an exercise assisting meterlike the instrument 10. When the user pulls the bars of the machinetogether to a prescribed distance or less with both arms, a built-insensor (switch, etc.) senses this and generates one pulse signal (or anumber thereof obtained by calculating the amount of user exercise interms of number of steps) corresponding thereto. The pulse signal issupplied to the instrument 10, which has been placed on a machine table101A, via an adapter cable 10B equipped with a common connector. Thesignal is input to the CPU 21 via the connector jack 36 of theinstrument 10. Accordingly, the instrument 10 is capable of effectivelysensing not only walking but also exercising that involves suchcomplicated motion and of reflecting this in the “Life Gauge”. Thus,almost all repetitive exercise performed by a user can become the objectof evaluation by the instrument 10.

In FIG. 24(A), the user is riding a bicycle 102 outside. The bicycle 102is equipped with a detecting portion (tachogenerator) 60 and meterportion 70 of a speedometer. The meter portion 70 is capable ofoutputting a pulse signal in which the amount of user exercise involvedin pedaling the bicycle is calculated in terms of number of steps walkedor ran. The instrument 10 carried by the user receives the pulse signalfrom the meter portion 70 via the cable 10B and can subject this signalto an evaluation of amount of exercise.

FIG. 24(B) illustrates the structure of the speedometer.

The detecting portion 60 is equipped with a disk 61 the perimeter ofwhich has a plurality of slits 62. The disk 61 is rotated in thedirection of arrow a, in unison with the traveling of the bicycle, by africtional rotation mechanism (not shown) in frictional contact with awheel. A photocoupler 63 is provided above the slits 62, and a detectionsignal indicating that slits have passed by is amplified and shaped intoa pulse by an amplifier 64. The frequency of the pulse signal varieswith the speed of the bicycle; the frequency rises as the speed (i.e.,the amount of exercising by the user) increases and falls as the speed(the amount of exercising by the user) decreases.

Under these conditions, a pulse−speed converter 71 counts the number ofpulses in a unit time and generates the corresponding speed information.The speed information is indicated digitally on the meter 73. Meanwhile,a pulse−number-of-steps converter 72 frequency-divides an input pulsesignal sequence and outputs a pulse signal S at a rate of once perM-number of inputs. By properly selecting the frequency dividing ratioM, the pulse signal S can be generated in such a manner that the pulseperiod becomes, e.g., 0.5 s or greater when the bicycle is traveling atlow speed (e.g., 20 km/h) and less than 0.5 s when the bicycle istraveling at high speed (e.g., 20 km/h). Upon receiving the pulse signalS, the instrument 10 increments the “Walking Counter” or “RunningCounter” by +1 in dependence upon the pulse period.

By thus carrying and using the instrument 10, the amount of variousdaily exercise of the user can be acquired without omission and can besubjected to overall evaluation.

In FIG. 3, the instrument 10 may be provided with the communication unit37 which relies upon a metal line, light (infrared radiation, etc.) orelectromagnetic waves, etc. In such case digital information more usefulthan simple pulses is received from an external machine or the like viathe communication unit 37. For example, absolute ranking informationregarding the machine (e.g., the fact that the highest record of anexercise performed using the machine is 100 times) is receivedbeforehand, after which the user challenges the machine and actuallyexercises to receive information indicative of actual measurement. Theinstrument 10 evaluates the received actual-measurement information (thenumber of times the exercise was performed) using 10 grades, forexample, and outputs a character image of the corresponding grade aswell as a message if required.

In the embodiment described above, operation is described based uponspecific numerical values, conditions and pictures (images), etc.However, it goes without saying that the present invention is notlimited these numerical values, conditions and pictures (images). Forexample, the period of an exercise can be set freely to 60 days, 120days, etc.

Further, in the embodiment set forth above, there is described anexample of an exercise assisting meter (a training pedometer) fullyequipped with the characterizing features of the present invention.However, it goes without saying that various types of exercise assistingmeters can be realized by freely combining components and controlrelating to one, two or more of the characterizing features of theforegoing embodiment.

Further, in the embodiment set forth above, the “Life Gauge” isincremented by +1 if a hit is achieved in a slot-machine game. However,an arrangement may be adopted in which, if a hit is achieved in theslot-machine game on the condition that “Present Attainment Rate”≧80%holds, the norm of that day is achieved.

Further, in the embodiment set forth above, a mutation occurs in a casewhere the evaluation of attainment rate over two days is equal to orgreater than 150%. However, the condition for a mutation may be anydesired condition. For example, an arrangement may be adopted in which amutation occurs in a case where half the set norm is achieved by runningover two consecutive days.

Further, in the embodiment set forth above, a sound comprising a beepingor chime tone is output to the speaker 29. However, an arrangement maybe adopted in which a computer-synthesized voice is output by a voicesynthesizer.

Though a preferred embodiment of the present invention is describedabove, it goes without saying that the components, control andcombinations thereof may be modified in various ways without departingfrom the idea of the present invention.

The exercise assisting meter of the present invention as described abovemanages a relative period, which extends from a reference time, andenumerates the repetitive amount of exercise performed by a user everyrelative period, and expresses the continuous result of evaluationthereof by image information (a character) of a virtual organism havinga plurality of grades. As a result, the user is capable of enjoyingexercising (training), which generally tends to be monotonous, togetherwith the present instrument.

Further, in exercising performed over a long period of time, thecharacter is caused to evolve and grow as days pass, for example, theform (state of health, physique) of the character is caused to change inaccordance with whether a daily goal is attained or not, and theexpression or motion (action) of the character is caused to change basedupon an evaluation of daily goal attainment. This makes it possible toenjoy long-term exercising and to properly support the health managementof the user. This makes a great contribution to facilitation of userexercising and to management of the user's health.

What is claimed is:
 1. An exercise assisting meter comprising: anexercise-amount enumeration unit for enumerating amount of repetitiveexercise of a user; a memory for storing image information on virtualorganisms of a plurality of grades; a controller for managing a relativeperiod, which extends from a reference time, and retaining a targetvalue of an amount of exercise to be attained within one relative periodand, by judging whether or not the goal has been attained, evaluatingcontinuously the amount of exercise enumerated by said exercise-amountenumeration unit in regard to each relative period and selecting avirtual organism of a corresponding grade; and a display unit forreading image information on said selected virtual organism out of saidmemory and displaying this image information on a screen.
 2. An exerciseassisting meter according to claim 1, wherein the memory stores imageinformation of a plurality of grades relating to species, forms,expressions and/or motion of virtual organisms.
 3. An exercise assistingmeter according to claim 2, wherein the controller causes the species ofa selected virtual organism to evolve or causes the form of the selectedvirtual organism to grow with a continuous evaluation.
 4. An exerciseassisting meter according to claim 1, wherein the controller enumeratesa cumulative value of amount of exercise performed over a predeterminedperiod of time and obtains a target value based upon a calculation(cumulative value)×[(one relative period)/(predetermined time period)].5. An exercise assisting meter according to claim 3, wherein thecontroller manages a life gauge that is for controlling selection of aspecies or form of a virtual organism and causes the life gauge the nexttime to be incremented or decremented in accordance with the judgment,made in each relative period, as to whether or not a goal has beenattained.
 6. An exercise assisting meter according to 1, wherein thecontroller retains one, two or more goal attainment rates that extendback in time from the present, causes the target value the next time toincrease in a case where said one, two or more goal attainment ratesexceed a first predetermined threshold value that is greater than 1, andcauses the target value the next time to decrease in a case where saidone, two or more goal attainment rates fall below a second predeterminedthreshold value that is less than
 1. 7. An exercise assisting meteraccording to claim 3, wherein the controller retains one, two or moregoal attainment rates that extend back in time from the present andcauses the selection of the virtual organism the next time to mutate toa species of a superior grade in a case where said one, two or more goalattainment rates exceed a third predetermined threshold value that isgreater than
 1. 8. An exercise assisting meter according to claim 2,wherein the memory stores image information indicating that a virtualorganism is sleeping, and the controller manages actual time and, from afirst predetermined time of the previous night to a second predeterminedtime of the following morning, causes the image information indicativeof sleeping to be displayed instead of image information indicating thatthe virtual organism is awake.
 9. An exercise assisting meter accordingto claim 2, wherein the memory stores image information indicating theconduct of a virtual organism, and the controller manages actual timeand, in a case where amount of exercise greater than a predeterminedamount is detected within a predetermined period of time at night, thecontroller causes the image information indicative of said conduct to bedisplayed by inserting the information or superimposing it at anappropriate timing.
 10. An exercise assisting meter according to claim4, wherein the controller retains date of birth of the user, informationrepresenting a comfort index that conforms to the season and/or a moodindex that conforms to the time, and manages actual time, actual dateand a wellness meter for controlling selection of expression or motionof a virtual organism being displayed on the screen; and said wellnessmeter is obtained at a suitable timing by a weighted evaluation of acombination of any one, two or more of an evaluation regarding goalattainment rate at the present time and/or on a day in the past, abiorhythm at the present date obtained from said date of birth, saidcomfort index conforming to said actual date, said mood index conformingto said actual time, and a random number.
 11. An exercise assistingmeter according to claim 4, further comprising an interaction key forinteraction with a virtual organism; wherein the memory stores aplurality of items of image information abstractly represent good andbad moods of a virtual organism; the controller retains date of birth ofthe user, a comfort index that conforms to the season and/or a moodindex that conforms to the time, and manages actual time, actual dateand a wellness meter for controlling selection of an interactionresponse screen; and said wellness meter is obtained at the time of aninput from said interaction key by a weighted evaluation of acombination of any one, two or more of an evaluation regarding goalattainment rate at the present time and/or on a day in the past, abiorhythm at the present date obtained from the date of birth, saidcomfort index conforming to said actual date, said mood index conformingto said actual time, and a random number; and image informationabstractly representing said moods corresponding to said wellness meteris displayed on the said response screen.
 12. An exercise assistingmeter according to claim 9, further comprising an interaction key forinteraction with a virtual organism; wherein the memory stores a messageconversion table in which season, date and time and/or evaluation ofgoal attainment rate at the present time and/or on a day in the pastserve as conditions and in which message information regardinggreetings, words of encouragement and/or praise, etc., are made tocorrespond to respective ones of these conditions; and the controllermanages the actual time and actual date and, in response to an inputfrom said interaction key, extracts, and displays on said interactionresponse screen, message information from said message conversion table,said message information conforming to the present date, present timeand/or evaluation of goal attainment rate at the present time and/or ona day in the past.
 13. An exercise assisting meter according to claim 1,further comprising a prescribed key; wherein the controller is adaptedso as to be capable of activating or deactivating the enumeratingoperation of the exercise-amount enumeration unit in response to aninput from said prescribed key.
 14. An exercise assisting meteraccording to claim 1, wherein the exercise-amount enumeration unitdetects time intervals at which a signal relating to the amount ofrepetitive exercise of the user is generated, evaluates said timeintervals by a predetermined threshold value and separately countssignals, which belong to different time intervals, as amounts ofexercise of different categories.
 15. An exercise assisting meteraccording to claim 9, wherein the controller is provided with aprescribed game processing function and causes the life gauge orwellness meter to be incremented if the user has won a game.
 16. Anexercise assisting meter according to claim 4, further comprising aprescribed key; wherein the controller provides a plurality of personalfiles for managing the relative period, target value and life gauge ofthe user and changes over a personal file that is the object ofmanagement in accordance with an input obtained by operating saidprescribed key.
 17. An exercise assisting meter according to claim 1,further comprising signal input means coupled to an external exercisemeasuring device by wire, light or radio, for inputting a signalindicative of detection of repetitive amount of exercise of a usermeasured by said external exercise measuring unit.